Mallory Swanson came back with a bang as she scored her first goal for Orlando Pride since returning from a knee injury.

Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

  • Swanson back in action after a long injury layoff
  • Scored her first goal of the 2024 NWSL season
  • Chicago Red Stars and Orlando Pride played out a 1-1 draw

  • WHAT HAPPENED?

    Swanson's 2023 NWSL season was cut short by a devastating knee injury while representing the United States women's national team in a friendly match last April. She returned to action in the current season and has now scored her first goal in the Chicago Red Stars' 1-1 draw against Orlando Pride.

    The forward received Jenna Bike's lobbed pass inside the box and scored past the opponent goalkeeper to restore parity in the match after Taylor Malham's first-half own goal had handed the hosts the lead.

    • Advertisement

  • WATCH THE CLIP

  • Getty

    THE BIGGER PICTURE

    The injury last year shattered the dream of the 25-year-old to represent the USWNT at the 2023 Women's World Cup. In January 2024, the striker signed a new deal with the Red Stars which according to reports is the most lucrative contract in the league's history.

    • ENJOYED THIS STORY?

    Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

  • Getty

    WHAT NEXT FOR MALLORY SWANSON?

    The American footballer will be next seen in action on April 14 as the Red Stars take on Angel City FC in the NWSL.